Forest Born
(Books of Bayern #4)

As usual, Hale's vivid, poetic language; romantic and action-filled plot twists; and friendship themes create a rich, satisfying read. But it's Rin's sensitively drawn struggle to recognize and accept her own power that will stay with readers most.

One doesn't need to have read the earlier books to become enraptured by this one, but doing so adds to the richness of these very satisfying tales.

Fans of the earlier titles as well as admirers of the genre will find Rin's journey a compelling read.

Copyright 2009 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission 

All is told in Hale's assured voice, drawing the details of her invented countries with precision and depth. Strong characters define the series. . . Newcomers will find this book an easy entry point, and fans will need no excuse to dive back into Hale's fantasy world.

Gr 711In her fourth fantasy about the land of Bayern, Hale has created a strong stand-alone companion to "The Goose Girl" (2003), "Enna Burning" (2004), and "River Secrets" (2006, all Bloomsbury). "Forest Born" centers on Razo's sister, Rin, and her special abilities. The struggle that she goes through as she begins to recognize her talent of persuasion and her elemental connection to the forest brings the typical fantasy themes of good vs. evil to a place that makes them very personal. Rin discovered as a child that her words could be powerful. But that power left her feeling confused and wrong. Since that time, the wrongness has curled up like a snake inside her, making her doubt whether she can ever find peace. Rin encounters Isi, Enna, and Dasha from the previous Bayern stories and through them she finds hope; perhaps what makes her different could be a blessing, if she is able to find balance in her gifts. Lurking throughout the story is the tumultuous backdrop of diplomatic negotiations and threats of war. Everything finally comes to a head when Isi's nemesis from "Goose Girl" returns and kidnaps her son. All four women need to work together to defeat Selia, who has been completely corrupted and consumed by her people-speaking power of persuasion. Fans of the earlier titles as well as admirers of the genre will find Rin's journey a compelling read."Genevieve Gallagher, Buford Middle School, Charlottesville, VA" Copyright 2009 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.